18
and to free themselves from the yoke; for they saw that the kingdom of the Greeks was completely enslaving Israel.
19
They went to Rome, a very long journey; and they entered the senate chamber and spoke as follows:
20
"Judas, who is also called Maccabeus, and his brothers and the people of the Jews have sent us to you to establish alliance and peace with you, that we may be enrolled as your allies and friends."
21
The proposal pleased them,
22
and this is a copy of the letter which they wrote in reply, on bronze tablets, and sent to Jerusalem to remain with them there as a memorial of peace and alliance:
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"May all go well with the Romans and with the nation of the Jews at sea and on land for ever, and may sword and enemy be far from them.
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If war comes first to Rome or to any of their allies in all their dominion,
25
the nation of the Jews shall act as their allies wholeheartedly, as the occasion may indicate to them.
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And to the enemy who makes war they shall not give or supply grain, arms, money, or ships, as Rome has decided; and they shall keep their obligations without receiving any return.
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In the same way, if war comes first to the nation of the Jews, the Romans shall willingly act as their allies, as the occasion may indicate to them.
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And to the enemy allies shall be given no grain, arms, money, or ships, as Rome has decided; and they shall keep these obligations and do so without deceit.